Area Guide for Almería, AlmeriaIntroduction:A stunning mix of old-world beauty and modern day conveniences await you. Almería offers beautiful beaches, impressive historical structures, picturesque fishing villages, and some challenging golf courses. After all, Hollywood producers film movies in Almería for a good reason - the scenery and activities are unforgettable. By day, you can bask in the sun. By night, you can mix it up with some of the friendly locals.
With so much to do and see, Almería is an area waiting for guests to explore its boundaries. Perfect for history buffs and laid back voyagers, Almería is sure to please everyone from families with young children to singles looking for an exciting vacation.
History:Built around 995 AD, Alcazaba is the largest fortress ever built by the Moors. At the time, Almería housed one of the area’s most important ports—rich with textiles trading, particularly silk and cotton. During the 11th century, part of the city was walled off (Muralla de Jairan) to add more security to the area.
When the Spanish Reconquest occurred, the Alcazaba’s men held their ground. The fortress seemed to be an impenetrable force against invasion. By the 15th century, however, Moors lost control and the area was successfully invaded by Catholic Monarchs and their troops.
Under Catholic control, the area continued to flourish. That is until a large earthquake hit in the 16th century, virtually destroying the city. While a handful of buildings were rebuilt during the 17th and 18th centuries, it took over three centuries for the city to regain its former glory.
Site Seeing:No visit to Almería is complete without spending a day viewing Alcazaba. Alcazaba is comprised of the main fortress, lavish gardens, and a Mudéjar Chapel. Almería’s Cathedral was constructed in the 16th century. Replacing the cathedral that was destroyed during the earthquake, the new cathedral resembles a castle. With four towers, thick stone walls, and small windows the Cathedral is an impressive sight. Originally built to function as a mosque, the interior boasts incredible walnut furnishings and Renaissance features. Plaza Vieja is home to the town hall. Built during the 1600s, the plaza square offers neat stores and restaurants. Next door to Alcazaba is the old gypsy quarter named La Chanca. In La Chanca, fishing was the main industry and gypsies lived in homes built into the caves. La Chanca is home to a weekly open-air market. Sala de Historia Antigua is Almería’s museum. Artifacts dating back to the Romans are on display. Muralla de Jairan is still visible. Jutting down the side of the Cerro de San Cristobal is an amazing sight to see. There are many area beaches hidden in rocky coves. Typically, the beaches are secluded and offer privacy to beachgoers. You may have to do some walking to get to the beaches, but once you are on them, the sparkling saltwater and pristine sand make the trip worthwhile.Industry:Tourism is one of Almería’s largest income producers. Many tourists come to the city every year bringing much needed revenue to local merchants, hotels, and restaurants.
Marble and stone industries are a close second to tourism. Many rocky areas exist, so marble and other stones are extracted and sent off to create floor tiles, countertops, and even furniture.
Finally, Almería receives plenty of income from crops and fishing. Agriculture and seafood are easily harvested in the area, and sold to neighbouring areas.
Gastronomy:Due to its prime coastal location, Almería’s waters offer abundant supplies of fresh clams, sardines, and other fish. The area is known for its rich Spicy Clam Stew packed with garlic, chili peppers, onion, clams, and white wine. Trigo is a stew mixing wheat berries, pork, and sausage. Gurullos with Rabbit contains dumplings that resemble thick pieces of pasta served with a rich meat sauce made from fresh vegetables and rabbit or quail meat.
Local beers and wines are served at almost all area dining establishments. Many restaurants and bars serve small samplings of local fare (tapas) with drinks for a minimal charge. You must try tapas if it is offered!
Two local restaurants typically receive rave reviews from diners. Try Bodega Bellavista, a charming seafood restaurant, or Club de Mar, a seafood restaurant situated right on the waterfront in the Almerían Yacht Club.
If you want to try tapas, Rincón de Juan Pedro is considered the area’s finest tapas bar. Here the tapas are included in the price of your drink.
Nightlife:Almería is a quieter spot, but the nights bustle with activity. Many bars offer live music and there are a handful of dance clubs in the city centre. Tourists highly recommend Discoteca Lord Nelson, a lively club with great dance floors. Daring visitors may want to head to May West, an Irish themed park, on Puerto de Aguadulce. At May West, staff teach many Spanish dance styles for free. Willing participants can get up and learn to do the Mamba, Merengue, Salsa, and other hot dances.Summary:With so much to see and do, Almería is a destination that deserves more than a quick glance. The area’s scenery is glorious, historical sites are unforgettable, and the food will delight any epicurean.
Set aside a few days to spend in this quiet, charming city. Friendly residents help ensure your stay will be lovely.
Useful Business Links for Almería:Do you offer a service in this area? If so, why not put a link here directly to your website. Contact Ask Olive today. |
